2022 Lincoln Navigator vs 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid presented a blend of sharp edges and a streamlined profile, fitting snugly between the Lexus UX and RX models. Its design, both different and familiar, maintained a scowling face that deviated from traditional SUV aesthetics. Despite its luxury branding, the NX shared its platform with the older Toyota RAV4, making it feel a step behind in engineering. The F Sport Black Line variant featured a larger mesh grille, dark-finish 18-inch wheels, and a striking Grecian Water blue paint, which contrasted nicely with its darker trim elements. Inside, the NX's radical design had become familiar, with a stepped center console and a lack of traditional wood trim. The F Sport package added a heated steering wheel, aluminum pedals, and NuLuxe upholstery, but the material quality leaned more towards mainstream than luxury.

In contrast, the 2022 Lincoln Navigator underwent subtle styling changes, including new headlights, taillights, and a restyled front end. The updated Lincoln Embrace illumination sequence added a touch of elegance, although the new grille design drew mixed reviews. Inside, the Navigator dazzled with quality materials and a mid-century modern design, featuring the Constellation display theme that evoked a twilight sky. The new Sync 4 infotainment system, with its 13.2-inch touchscreen, offered ample display space and user-friendly controls. The Navigator continued to impress with its spacious interior, offering heated, ventilated, and massaging seats across all rows, and generous cargo space, especially in the long-wheelbase version.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a total of 194 horsepower and standard all-wheel drive. Despite its sporty F Sport styling, the NX Hybrid was more focused on fuel efficiency than performance, with a 0-60 mph time of 9.1 seconds and a top speed of 112 mph. The hybrid system struggled with seamless power delivery, and the steering felt numb. However, the sport-tuned suspension provided agile handling and a comfortable ride. Drive modes like Normal, Eco, and Sport offered minimal impact on performance, with Eco mode further dulling acceleration.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator boasted a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. This robust powertrain allowed for a towing capacity between 8,100 and 8,700 pounds, depending on configuration. The Navigator's adaptive-damping suspension, enhanced with Road Preview, smoothed out imperfections on the road. A new electronic brake booster improved brake response, and the SUV handled snowy and muddy conditions with ease, thanks to its four-wheel drive and 9.7 inches of ground clearance. The Navigator achieved an average fuel economy of 18.6 mpg during testing.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid offered limited interior space, with the least front headroom in its segment and cramped rear seats. The front seats, however, provided excellent support and comfort, with standard 10-way power adjustment. The sloping roofline and thick rear pillars hindered rear visibility, though large mirrors helped compensate. Cargo space was limited, with 16.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 53.7 cubic feet with them folded. Power-folding rear seats and a power liftgate were available but not standard.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator excelled in comfort and space, with 30-way power-adjustable front seats and newly massaging second-row captain’s chairs. The third row offered roomy accommodations, and the Navigator's independent rear suspension contributed to a comfortable ride. Cargo space was generous, with 19.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 103.3 cubic feet with seats folded. The long-wheelbase version offered even more space, making it ideal for large families and cargo.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid's infotainment system was a weak point, featuring an 8-inch display with an awkward Remote Touch Interface touchpad. While it supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the system felt dated, with text-heavy menus and outdated graphics. The base audio system was underwhelming, lacking the quality expected from a luxury brand.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced a new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen, offering a user-friendly interface and voice recognition. The system supported Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, with physical controls for climate and audio functions. The Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system, enhanced with Amazon Fire TV, provided access to popular streaming services. The 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system delivered exceptional sound quality.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid earned a “Top Safety Pick+” from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It came standard with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of driver aids, including forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. However, it lacked a 360-degree camera system.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced new driver assistance features, including Intersection Assist, Road Edge Detection, and ActiveGlide, a semi-autonomous driving technology. A surround-view camera system became standard, enhancing safety. ActiveGlide allowed for hands-free driving on approved highways, though drivers needed to remain attentive.